The Different Plastics Used in Construction

Plastic can take on many forms, both durable and malleable, which is why it’s so useful for construction. Most construction projects will use some form of plastic as building materials, often utilizing multiple plastics to complete one project. To better understand what this looks like, here are the different plastics workers use in construction projects.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

PVC comes in many forms, but you typically see it used as piping or cables throughout buildings to protect pathways. It’s extremely cost-effective and a quality material for most applications, which is why it’s great for construction. It even has a low environmental impact compared to many other plastic options.

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

While HDPE sees a lot of use in everyday plastic products, it also sees a lot of use in construction. The most common uses of HDPE for construction are piping systems for water and geothermal systems. HDPE is also one of the best plastics for resisting corrosion, which is why it’s so useful for construction.

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)

A lot of insulation in the walls and ceilings of buildings uses EPS to help control the temperature of the building. One of the most popular uses for EPS is to sheath a building to prevent heat transfer and prevent moisture from entering the structure. It’s one of the most popular forms of insulation; you can find it in many different forms throughout various building types.

Other Uses of Plastic in Construction

There are many different plastics used in construction, and there are equally as many uses for those plastics. From plastic films for packaging to piping to nails and screws, plastic is a lightweight, durable, and cost-effective resource that’s perfect for construction. Many buildings utilize plastic for windows, roofing, flooring, and even doors. There are very few parts of a building that can’t utilize plastic if given the chance.

Understanding the uses of plastic will help you plan your own construction project. Plastic is a vital tool for good construction methods, and many systems rely on it to work effectively. Additionally, it’ll save a lot of money and is easy to recycle in comparison to many other materials used in construction.